In a rare video appearance, a prominent leader within the Sahel’s jihadist factions directed sharp criticism toward the military administrations in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, as well as their affiliation with Russian forces.
The leader of the Al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), Iyad Ag Ghaly, urged local Muslims to support his fighters against the “treacherous governments” of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger and against the Russian paramilitary group Wagner, which is active in Mali.
These nations, grappling with jihadist insurgencies, have witnessed military takeovers through coups, severing ties with France and other Western allies.
Verification of the video footage was confirmed on Wednesday by SITE, an American NGO specializing in monitoring extremist groups.
Ag Ghaly condemned the recent military escalation in northern Mali, particularly the Malian army’s reclamation of Kidal with Wagner’s support, citing civilian “massacres” and forced displacements as the heavy toll.
In the 22-minute video, the jihadist leader aimed to depict himself as a champion for the oppressed, despite jihadist forces being responsible for frequent attacks on both civilians and the military.
Directing his message to Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga, Ag Ghaly asserted that the “Islamic cause” fundamentally clashed with the current administration’s agenda. He emphasized the uncompromising nature of governance aligned with Islamic law.
Ag Ghaly also condemned the situation in Burkina Faso, accusing Captain Ibrahim Traore’s regime of widespread persecution, killings, and displacements among the populace. He applauded the jihadists’ efforts, claiming significant losses on the opposing side.
Many Malian commentators and officials view Ag Ghaly as an influential figure in resolving the country’s enduring crisis.
